Albany State University Hosts Second President’s Lecture Series Event Focused on Leadership and Workforce Readiness

Albany State University (ASU) welcomed faculty, staff, students, alumni, and community members to the second installment of the Dr. Robert Scott President’s Lecture Series: Foundations for the Future on Thursday evening. Presented in partnership with the ASU Strada Scholars, the event featured former Atlanta City Councilman, journalist, entrepreneur, and community organizer Derrick Boazman, who delivered an engaging and motivational conversation on leadership development and workforce readiness. 

Boazman is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Global Leadership Solutions, Inc. and founder of the annual Let Us Make Man conference, an initiative that has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for scholarships, charities, and community programs across Georgia. A lifelong public servant and advocate, Boazman opened his remarks by sharing the personal journey that shaped his leadership philosophy, reflecting on his upbringing as one of six children, the influence of his mother who returned to school to become a nurse, and the importance of believing in one’s purpose.

His lecture, titled “7 Keys for Successful Leaders,” outlined essential traits that prepare individuals for meaningful careers and impactful service. The seven keys included:
Love what you do or do not do it
Vision
Adaptability
Resilience
Continuous learning
Networking
Persistence

Boazman emphasized that leadership begins with self-awareness and preparation. Drawing from his experience as a young man seeking mentorship from the late State Senator Arthur Langford Jr., he recounted how being prepared when opportunity arises changed the course of his life.

“When you get the opportunity to show up, show up,” Boazman said, recalling the early days when he carried Langford’s briefcase into high-level meetings, including visits to Governor Zell Miller’s office. “People are observing you even when you think they are not. Your work ethic and the quality of what you produce will speak for you.”

Throughout the conversation, Boazman encouraged students to embrace purpose, view setbacks as learning experiences, and maintain a willingness to adapt when life takes unexpected turns. He reminded attendees that success is not achieved alone and that mentorship, service, and preparation remain essential.

“College is a laboratory,” Boazman said during the question and answer session. “Use this time to ask questions, challenge ideas, advocate for what you want, and prepare yourself to help your community.”

Audience members engaged Boazman with questions about motivation, purpose, political leadership, and media responsibility. He urged students to lead with integrity, focus on facts, and center their work on service. He also encouraged them to remain grounded in purpose even when misunderstood, emphasizing that meaningful callings often require courage.

President Robert Scott closed the evening by thanking Boazman for his candor, insight, and commitment to empowering future leaders.

“We created the President’s Lecture Series to speak directly to our students about what it means to prepare for the future,” said President Scott. “Tonight’s conversation reminded us that learning does not end in the classroom. Growth requires curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to be challenged. What Mr. Boazman shared with our campus community is the same wisdom he shares on the airwaves in Atlanta. His message reinforces that every student here has the capacity to lead, to serve, and to transform their community. As president, I am called to ensure that they are equipped for that journey, and I am grateful for voices like his that help illuminate the path forward.”

The President’s Lecture Series continues to build on ASU’s commitment to developing thoughtful, prepared, and purpose-driven graduates. Through conversations with influential leaders, the series equips students with tools for lifelong learning, professional success, and community impact.